Chapter 11
Disclaimer- I own the WWE and everyone in this fic and . . . *sees your eyes rolling* Oh come on people, you should know how manipulative and controlling I am by now . . . Stephanie's my remodel for crying out loud! For the actual disclaimer . . . *hides plans to take over WWE* Heh, I don't own anyone yet, but until I overthrow Vinnie Mac and become CEO of the WWE I don't own crap so stop yellin at me!!
*Author's Note*
~Here's a list of some of the superstar's real names so there won't be any confusion:
Matt Hardy= Matt Hardy (no duh), Stephanie McMahon= Stephanie McMahon, Edge= Adam Copeland, Jeff Hardy= Jeff Hardy (another no brainer), Lita= Amy Dumas, Christian= Jay Reso, Trish Stratus= Patricia Stratigias (I'll be using her ring name though, I like it better . . .), Nidia= Nidia Guenard, Victoria= Lisa Marie Sole, Molly Holly= Nora Greenwald, Ivory= Tina Ferrani, Jacquelyn= Jacquelyn Moore, Jazz- Charlene Begnaud, Terri= Terri Boatright, Dawn Marie= Dawn Marie Psaltis, Torrie Wilson= Torrie Wilson & Stacy Keibler= Stacy Keibler
All of these people may not be mentioned in this particularly chapter (but maybe in a later chapter, or maybe just not at all, I haven't decided), or they might just be mentioned briefly. Plus I'm kinda giving you a selection at who the female blackmailer could be . . . or not! Bwahahahahahaha! ~
*A/N 2*- Molly Holly is still a blond & isn't a heel. She's got that sweet lil cutesie pootsie attitude, all innocent & stuff. That means pig tails people!! And her character's still with Spikey, cause they made such a cute couple! *sigh* (I liked her a lot better like that, so that's why I'm making her like this . . . ITS MY FIC, I CAN DO WHAT I WANT! *twitch*) Read on!
"So boyz, I'm thinkin' that we should hit the clubs tomorrow night. Whatchya think?" Amy suggested on the drive back to the hotel. "We'll be in Norfolk, Virginia I'm not sure about the clubs there but we could always check."
"Whateva." Matt answered dryly from the passenger seat. Jeff who was driving took a moment to think about the suggestion.
"Hmmmm . . . clubbin'. Sounds good, but . . . oh my god! I have nothin' to wear! What am I gonna do?" Jeff said in a high feminine voice, gaining a chuckle from both Amy and Matt.
"Well Jeffy, you could always wear something of mine . . ." Amy proposed grinning at the thought of Jeff in a tight midriff halter top and a mini- skirt.
"Oh hell no" Jeff laughed.
"Why, you got nice legs . . . a skirt would work nicely on you." Amy chuckled as Jeff stuck his tongue out at her in the front view mirror. "Matt you're awfully quiet, is something wrong?"
"No I'm fine Ames, I'm just tried." He answered dully. Jeff glanced at his brother knowingly, and then turned his attention back to the road. 'There's something he's not telling me.' Jeff thought as he pulled into the parking lot of the hotel.
After checking in, it was around 12:30 am when Team Xtreme reached there hotel rooms. "Well we'll see ya tomorrow Amy, bye!" Matt said, giving Amy a quick hug then inserted the key card into his and Jeff's room. Amy did the same with hers making a considerable amount of noise as she did so, not really caring if she woke Stephanie up. Amy walked into the darkened room a flipped on the lights.
"What the hell? Where is she? Matt told me that Steph left with Adam about twenty minutes before we did, she should be here by now. Ohhh, Adam!" Amy realized, slapping her forehead. "The little bitch is with her night and shining armor. Aw, how sweet. Peh." Amy grumbled as she unpacked her nightclothes and went into the bathroom to change.
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"So, what ya think?" Adam asked nervously as Stephanie pondered his idea. Her brow was furrowed in thought, as if she was in deep concentration, contemplating something. Finally, for what seem like hours she looked up at him and nodded. Adam let out a sigh of relief. He'd thought she'd yell at him, or think he was totally out of line for even suggesting it, but it was all he could think of. NO ONE would believe them when they said that they weren't an item, so now they needed a plan in which Adam had so kindly provided.
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She cautiously leaned over the sink, lighter in hand. She held the lighter up to the photograph, smirking as she did so and watched with a satisfied grin as the picture turned to ashes. The remains of it were strewn in the sink, crumpled and smoking. She turned the faucet on preventing the start of a fire. "Just wait Stephie; soon you're gonna crash and burn!" The woman cackled as she opened the door to the bathroom.
"Hey, I'm back." A man's voice called, as he shut the door to the hotel room. The woman twisted smile on the woman's face only grew.
"So, did you get it?"
"Yep, a whole shit load. Vinnie Mac, I thank you." The man answered, in a sinister tone.
"You sure there were no cops?" The woman's voice turned nervous. The man shook his head.
"No one. That old bastard kept his word."
"He may be and old bastard but he's a rich old bastard." She laughed as she took the large suitcase of money out of his arms. "Good, hundreds just like we asked for. At least he's cooperating . . . for now."
"Of course that old bastard's gonna cooperate . . . right?" The male asked in an unsure tone.
"Just to be on the safe side, we should prove to Vinnie that we mean business."
"You don't mean . . ."
"Of course. The Billion Dollar Bitch is our next victim." The shrill voice of the woman confirmed. The pair looked at each other, then at the money and threw back their heads in what truly sounded like sinister, sadistic laughter.
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The next morning was a hectic one. First the superstars had to survive the incredibly long ride to Norfolk, Virginia where they would be doing a house show. Stephanie and Adam were working on putting their plan into action, (although they agreed on some ground rules, which you'll find out about later, hehe.)
It's now around three o'clock and Jeff is getting in a workout at a local gym. Up, down, up, down, was basically the pattern of the barbell's movements that Jeff continually lifted over his head. He grunted every so often as he struggled to steady the barbell in his grip. "Whew, time for a break." Jeff breathed as he slowly lowered the barbell down to the ground. He grabbed a towel, wiped the droplets of fresh sweat from his face and walked over to the vending machine to purchase a bottle of water. "How could they be sold out? Damn it! But I'm dying here!" Jeff moaned as he pounded on the empty vending machine. "Just my luck" He muttered angrily. Seconds later he felt a light tap on his back. Upon contact, Jeff jumped slightly out of surprise and whirled around.
"Hey."
"Oh hey Trish, what's up?"
"Just getting in my workout. From the looks of it you're having a fight with the vending machine and well . . . lost." Trish laughed, and a small smile crept on Jeff's lips.
"Well, uh no. I needed water, but this dumb machine doesn't have any. I mean it only WATER machine, right?" Jeff said heatedly, as Trish simply smiled. She unzipped her duffle bag, sifted through it and finally pulled out a water bottle.
"I have a water bottle. It's so cold, real cool, crisp, luscious water, just waiting to be drunk . . . Just what ya need to quench ya thirst." Trish teased playfully, holding the bottle in front of his face.
"Why must you do this to me? Can I have some? Pwease?!" Jeff begged, giving her his best puppy dog eyes.
"Weeeeellll, I dunno. I just had a HARD, hard workout. I think I should drink this. You wouldn't want me to dehydrate now would you?" Trish asked, as she unscrewed the cap of the bottle. Just as she was about to take a sip Jeff shouted in protest.
"NOOOOOOO! I want it, please! I'll die if I don't have water! You wouldn't want that now would you Trish? Awww, come on pwease, I'll be you're best friend . . ." Trish laughed as Jeff continued to beg. Really it was a cute little game, others would think they were idiotic, fighting over a water bottle, but to them it was there sick little way of flirting.
"Well, I suppose I could. . ." Trish giggled as she shoved the bottle into Jeff's awaiting hands.
Jeff smiled opening the cap and downing at least half the bottle. When he was finished he asked, "So why'd ya give this up for me?"
Trish rolled her eyes. "Jeff it's only a water bottle. Plus I did it for my sake so I wouldn't have to listen to you bitch about how you're dying of thirst. Oh, and Jeff I'm taking it that you weren't aware that there's a water machine on the other side of the gym, right?" Trish smirked as Jeff spewed the water he'd just started to drink, on himself, on Trish, basically everywhere. "Ewwww that was so gross Jeff."
"Heh, sorry. You knew that there was another machine across the gym? So then why didn't you just tell me, instead of making me wait?" Jeff asked confused as Trish smirked.
"Well, I wanted you to beg. And well, you look cute when you're all nervous and stuff." Trish mumbled as Jeff confused look turned into a smile.
"Oh, well thanks." Jeff grinned, taking another sip of the water. "Oh hey, are you gonna come to the club tonight? It's gonna be bangin'!" Jeff exclaimed as Trish took a moment to ponder this.
"Hmmmmm . . . sure, why not?"
"Awesome! Oh, heh you got a lil somethin' right there." Jeff informed her, vaguely pointing to her face.
"What? Where?"
"There!"
"Did I get it?"
"No. Here, lemmie help." Jeff brought his thump up to her face, and gently wiped off the water about her eyebrow with his thumb. "How the hell did water get on your face?"
"Uh, Jeff you kinda SPIT everywhere! Well thanks, I'll see ya lata, I got to get to a photo shoot. Bye!"
"Hey, wait up! Don't ya wanna get all the info first?" Jeff asked, bouncing on the balls of his feet.
"Heh, right. Call me on my cell with the details. Cya tonight Jeffy!" Trish said as she gave Jeff a quick hug, gathered her things and made her way to the exit. Jeff watched her leave, grinning like an idiot. He followed Trish's suit and collected his things, getting ready to leave as well. "Tonight is gonna rock!" Jeff exclaimed as he turned on the ignition in his rental car, and sped off.
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The Diva's locker room was always a place where the girls would chat, gossip, and give advice on each others problems. It was basically a friendly atmosphere, a place any diva wanted to be. Although Stephanie was always given her own dressing room, she tried to make as many frequent visits to the locker room, to be among what she considered 'close friends'. Stephanie really wanted to get her mind off of her troubles, so she figured a friendly 'chat' with the girls would do the trick. How wrong she was.
Not bothering to knock, Stephanie pushed the large oak door to the Diva's locker room slightly ajar, and poked her head in. Before calling attention to herself, Steph observed the room and its occupants. The pale yellow walls were attached to rows of lockers, but still left an ample amount of space in the enormous room. Most of the diva's weren't there, some getting in a workout, others possibly doing photo shoots or interviews. Among the absent diva's were, Amy, the three Tough Enough girls, Jackie Gayda, Linda Miles and Nidia Guenard, who were all doing a Tough Enough shoot with Maven and Chris Nowinski. As well as Dawn Marie, Trish, Lisa Marie, Tina, Charlene or Lillian, who was at a local studio working on a track for her new CD. 'Thank God that bitch Stacy's isn't here. For her sake, and for my sanity.' Stephanie thought, as she tiptoed further into the room.
Nora was doing warm-ups in the corner, which made Steph smile. Nora was such a sweet person, with a bubbly personality that she admired. There wasn't much of a difference from Nora and her character Molly Holly. Jacquelyn was doing her make up in the mirror, Torrie was sifting through her duffle bag, and Terri was attempting to crimp her hair, but seemed to be failing miserably. Stephanie smiled, this was definitely the place she needed to be. She cleared her throat and everyone looked up from what they were previously doing.
"Hey girl!" Jacquelyn greeted, running over to her and hugging her.
"It's about time you visited us!" Terri exclaimed, placing the hair crimper down on a bench and also giving Steph a hug.
"Yeah what took you so long? It's been ages!" Molly joked, as she bounced over and she and Stephanie shared a hug as well.
"My turn! How ya been?" Torrie said, coming over to Stephanie and the two shared a short friendly hug. (A/N- Sorry about all the hugging, they just haven't really talked to Steph in a little while. *thinks* Plus they seem like the people to hug . . . okay maybe not. Keep reading.)
"Geez, guys it's not like we haven't seen each other in years! In fact we usually see each other every work day!" Stephanie laughed. The girls led her to a bench were they could talk.
"So . . ." Terri began in a suggestive tone. All the divas had the same burning question. The problem was, none of them were really sure if it was there place to ask. Stephanie curiously raised an eyebrow at her friends.
"What do you want to know?" Stephanie asked half-jokingly.
"How could you think such a thing?" Torrie accused, holing her hand to her heart, pretending to be hurt be the question.
"What a Drama Queen!" Terri chuckled, whacking Torrie lightly in the arm.
"Hey, I am not!"
"Suuuuuuure you're not." Jacquelyn replied, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. Torrie sat; arms crossed over her chest, and puffed out her lip pretending to pout. Everyone laughed at her, as it did look rather funny. Seconds later Torrie joined in with them, and ended up getting the hiccups because she laughed so hard.
After the five were able to catch their breath Stephanie spoke. "Aw guys, I know you want something, so quit the act." She said rather bluntly. All four girls glanced at each other, the one glance containing a whole silent conversation's worth of words. They nodded, silently agreeing to ask 'the question'.
"Well . . . are you and-" Jacquelyn began, but stopped abruptly when a tall figure came out of the bathroom/shower section of the locker room.
"Oh hi *hiccup* Stacy! Look who *hiccup* came to *hiccup* visit!" Torrie exclaimed brightly, through a slue of hiccups. The other divas smiled up at her, and cheerfully exchanged pleasantries. Stephanie on the other hand was less than thrilled about Stacy's arrival. Steph's icy stare seemed to penetrate right through the leggy blond, as an uncomfortable silence filled the room. Stacy stood in the middle of the room, her wet hair wrapped in a towel, as she tried to build up the courage to say something.
"Um, hi Steph. Great to see you." Stacy practically whimpered. Her feeble attempt to act nonchalant was as see through as glass to all in the room. They knew something was up.
Not breaking eye contact, Stephanie replied coldly, "Oh it's a pleasure seeing you too Stacy. Maybe we could have a chit-chat sometime?"
"Uh, okay. Oh we could go shopping! I heard there's some great sales. That is, if you have time." Stacy answered enthusiastically. She honestly felt guilty for sleeping with Vince, she only did it so she could get more air time and be higher in the company. 'Lucky Stephanie doesn't know I had an affair with her father. He's a pruning old bastard and I can't stand him in the least! And to think, he was the one who seduced me! Ewww, that sick fuck! Besides, I have my eye on someone else.' Stacy thought, her facial features turning sour at the thought of Vince.
"Sure Stacy. Um guys, I think I need to get going. See you all later. Bye!" Stephanie departed hastily leaving the girls baffled. A new thought had sprung into her mind. What if Stacy was the blackmailer? 'She could have easily done it. She obviously knew about the affair, since she was involved. She probably would have an accomplice though. It would be so easy for her to get away with it. Stacy's Vince's 'personal assistant' so she's around him all the time. Why didn't I think of this before? She probably set my father up. Seduced him, got him to sleep with her, then blackmailed him for God-knows-why.' Stephanie thought furiously. She walked through the corridor with increasing speed but came to an abrupt halt when she vaguely heard her name being called. Steph whirled around, only to come face to face with Nora. "Oh hey."
"What was all the rush about?" Nora asked curiously, tapping her foot on the ground.
"Well, I have uh, problems with Stacy."
"Okay, wanna elaborate hun?" Nora inquired, placing her hands on her hips. Stephanie let out a deep sigh, keeping eye contact with the tile floor. 'Should I tell her? Can I trust her? Will she believe me? Steph stop it, this is Nora you're talking about! Telling her might help . . . get it off my chest. Plus with Amy pissed at me, I have no female companion to discuss this with. Okay, I'm gonna go for it.' Steph's mind raced, as she thought rapidly of what to do. Firmly deciding, she turned back to Nora.
"Well?" Nora asked smiling brightly.
"Let's go somewhere so we can talk privately, I don't want this getting out." Nora nodded and the girls walked back to Stephanie's dressing room. After making sure the door was securely shut, Stephanie took a seat on the couch next to Nora. She sighed "This could take awhle".
"I've got time" Nora stated with a small smile.
"Well, if I chuck anything valuable across the room, just remember it was out of anger . . . and uh don't tell Mom or Shane it was me." Stephanie joked lightly as Nora nodded in anticipation. "Okay, here's the whole story . . ." Stephanie then began to explain to Nora how she found out that Vince had been having an affair with Stacy, and now he was being blackmailed. She did however leave out the part that Matt was the only other person that knew this information, and the fact that Steph could soon be their next victim. Nora sat blinking in shock for a moment.
"Oh my gosh, Stephanie I'm so sorry! Not to worry you, but do you think you are in any danger?"
Stephanie bit her lip, her gaze moving to the floor. 'It's like she read my mind! Should I tell her? Should I lie? Damn it, why did she ask that? I don't want to worry her, and well myself for that matter.' Steph shook her head as if to get the thoughts out of her mind. "I um, might be in danger. But I highly, highly doubt it, I mean I'm not involved in this at all, you know?" Stephanie's voice wavered nervously.
"Hunny, I don't know. You could be in serious danger!" Nora exclaimed her voice growing high, being over dramatic. Stephanie gulped down the lump that had been forming in her throat, but tried to keep her facial features calm.
"Uh, anyway, when we were in the hallway, did you feel like we were being followed?" Stephanie asked apprehensively. She could no longer ignore the lurching feeling in the pit of her stomach anymore, she knew something was going on. And she knew it wasn't going to be pretty either.
Fear flashed through Nora's electric blue eyes, but soon returned to their usual bright sunny selves. "I was just going to ask you the same question!"
From outside of Stephanie's locker room, a dark figure turned off a recorder. Out of pure panic at the fact he might soon be discovered, he quickly but quietly clicked the locker room door shut. 'So she knows someone is after her. But she doesn't know how much danger she truly is in.' He mused, as a sinister grin spread across his face. He meticulously checked the halls so he would no be seen, and luckily they were clear. He quickly and silently walked back to his locker room. He shut the door securely and plopped down on the couch to think. 'That bitch is going down. She'll learn never to mess with me or my heart again. She burned me, so know it's time for her to feel my pain. One year ago . . . I loved her with all my heart. Then the little Princess just offs and leaves my . . . tells me there's some one else she loves. Someone she's always loved. When I find out who he is . . .' He threw a vase across the room. Sure he might be overacting, but because of this 'guy' Steph had left him. They would both pay in the end.
Back in Stephanie's locker room, Nora was desprately trying to console Stephanie. "Hun, don't worry, I'm sure everything will be fine. If anything get's out of hand I'm sure you're dad will get the police involved. Plus, why would the blackmailers want anything to do with you?"
"I . . . I don't know. It's just that everything has been so messed up lately, ya know? I can't even get my head straight, let alone my life. I don't mean to sound like a Prima Dona, but everything has been so rough lately. If my mom finds out about the affair, as sure as I'm standing here, there's gonna be a nasty divorce. I dunno if I could handle that. And the fact that my career is taking its toll on me, and my love life is totally screwed up isn't helping much." Stephanie sighed. Nora smiled apologetically, and gave her a warm hug. "And Amy isn't talking-" Stephanie stopped abruptly as a knock sounded on the door.
"Uh, come in . . ." Nora said breaking the embrace.
A/N- OH, who's at the door? Heh, I just felt like ending this rather boring chapter abruptly. I got the power . . . WOOOOOOO! I love power . . . *droolz* Sorry that this chapter was so uneventful. But I did kinda introduced the fact the Blackmailer/Stalkers are after Steph. If you guyz review then I'll tell ya who's at the door in the next chap as well as what Steph & Adam's 'plan' thingy was. It's kinda lame, but it was all I could think of. Okay, I'd like to thank all the people who reviewed this fic, you guyz rock! And special thanks to Samantha Jane Hardy, she's always has something positive to say, thanks girl! You're my best reviewer! Toodlez!
Disclaimer- I own the WWE and everyone in this fic and . . . *sees your eyes rolling* Oh come on people, you should know how manipulative and controlling I am by now . . . Stephanie's my remodel for crying out loud! For the actual disclaimer . . . *hides plans to take over WWE* Heh, I don't own anyone yet, but until I overthrow Vinnie Mac and become CEO of the WWE I don't own crap so stop yellin at me!!
*Author's Note*
~Here's a list of some of the superstar's real names so there won't be any confusion:
Matt Hardy= Matt Hardy (no duh), Stephanie McMahon= Stephanie McMahon, Edge= Adam Copeland, Jeff Hardy= Jeff Hardy (another no brainer), Lita= Amy Dumas, Christian= Jay Reso, Trish Stratus= Patricia Stratigias (I'll be using her ring name though, I like it better . . .), Nidia= Nidia Guenard, Victoria= Lisa Marie Sole, Molly Holly= Nora Greenwald, Ivory= Tina Ferrani, Jacquelyn= Jacquelyn Moore, Jazz- Charlene Begnaud, Terri= Terri Boatright, Dawn Marie= Dawn Marie Psaltis, Torrie Wilson= Torrie Wilson & Stacy Keibler= Stacy Keibler
All of these people may not be mentioned in this particularly chapter (but maybe in a later chapter, or maybe just not at all, I haven't decided), or they might just be mentioned briefly. Plus I'm kinda giving you a selection at who the female blackmailer could be . . . or not! Bwahahahahahaha! ~
*A/N 2*- Molly Holly is still a blond & isn't a heel. She's got that sweet lil cutesie pootsie attitude, all innocent & stuff. That means pig tails people!! And her character's still with Spikey, cause they made such a cute couple! *sigh* (I liked her a lot better like that, so that's why I'm making her like this . . . ITS MY FIC, I CAN DO WHAT I WANT! *twitch*) Read on!
"So boyz, I'm thinkin' that we should hit the clubs tomorrow night. Whatchya think?" Amy suggested on the drive back to the hotel. "We'll be in Norfolk, Virginia I'm not sure about the clubs there but we could always check."
"Whateva." Matt answered dryly from the passenger seat. Jeff who was driving took a moment to think about the suggestion.
"Hmmmm . . . clubbin'. Sounds good, but . . . oh my god! I have nothin' to wear! What am I gonna do?" Jeff said in a high feminine voice, gaining a chuckle from both Amy and Matt.
"Well Jeffy, you could always wear something of mine . . ." Amy proposed grinning at the thought of Jeff in a tight midriff halter top and a mini- skirt.
"Oh hell no" Jeff laughed.
"Why, you got nice legs . . . a skirt would work nicely on you." Amy chuckled as Jeff stuck his tongue out at her in the front view mirror. "Matt you're awfully quiet, is something wrong?"
"No I'm fine Ames, I'm just tried." He answered dully. Jeff glanced at his brother knowingly, and then turned his attention back to the road. 'There's something he's not telling me.' Jeff thought as he pulled into the parking lot of the hotel.
After checking in, it was around 12:30 am when Team Xtreme reached there hotel rooms. "Well we'll see ya tomorrow Amy, bye!" Matt said, giving Amy a quick hug then inserted the key card into his and Jeff's room. Amy did the same with hers making a considerable amount of noise as she did so, not really caring if she woke Stephanie up. Amy walked into the darkened room a flipped on the lights.
"What the hell? Where is she? Matt told me that Steph left with Adam about twenty minutes before we did, she should be here by now. Ohhh, Adam!" Amy realized, slapping her forehead. "The little bitch is with her night and shining armor. Aw, how sweet. Peh." Amy grumbled as she unpacked her nightclothes and went into the bathroom to change.
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"So, what ya think?" Adam asked nervously as Stephanie pondered his idea. Her brow was furrowed in thought, as if she was in deep concentration, contemplating something. Finally, for what seem like hours she looked up at him and nodded. Adam let out a sigh of relief. He'd thought she'd yell at him, or think he was totally out of line for even suggesting it, but it was all he could think of. NO ONE would believe them when they said that they weren't an item, so now they needed a plan in which Adam had so kindly provided.
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She cautiously leaned over the sink, lighter in hand. She held the lighter up to the photograph, smirking as she did so and watched with a satisfied grin as the picture turned to ashes. The remains of it were strewn in the sink, crumpled and smoking. She turned the faucet on preventing the start of a fire. "Just wait Stephie; soon you're gonna crash and burn!" The woman cackled as she opened the door to the bathroom.
"Hey, I'm back." A man's voice called, as he shut the door to the hotel room. The woman twisted smile on the woman's face only grew.
"So, did you get it?"
"Yep, a whole shit load. Vinnie Mac, I thank you." The man answered, in a sinister tone.
"You sure there were no cops?" The woman's voice turned nervous. The man shook his head.
"No one. That old bastard kept his word."
"He may be and old bastard but he's a rich old bastard." She laughed as she took the large suitcase of money out of his arms. "Good, hundreds just like we asked for. At least he's cooperating . . . for now."
"Of course that old bastard's gonna cooperate . . . right?" The male asked in an unsure tone.
"Just to be on the safe side, we should prove to Vinnie that we mean business."
"You don't mean . . ."
"Of course. The Billion Dollar Bitch is our next victim." The shrill voice of the woman confirmed. The pair looked at each other, then at the money and threw back their heads in what truly sounded like sinister, sadistic laughter.
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The next morning was a hectic one. First the superstars had to survive the incredibly long ride to Norfolk, Virginia where they would be doing a house show. Stephanie and Adam were working on putting their plan into action, (although they agreed on some ground rules, which you'll find out about later, hehe.)
It's now around three o'clock and Jeff is getting in a workout at a local gym. Up, down, up, down, was basically the pattern of the barbell's movements that Jeff continually lifted over his head. He grunted every so often as he struggled to steady the barbell in his grip. "Whew, time for a break." Jeff breathed as he slowly lowered the barbell down to the ground. He grabbed a towel, wiped the droplets of fresh sweat from his face and walked over to the vending machine to purchase a bottle of water. "How could they be sold out? Damn it! But I'm dying here!" Jeff moaned as he pounded on the empty vending machine. "Just my luck" He muttered angrily. Seconds later he felt a light tap on his back. Upon contact, Jeff jumped slightly out of surprise and whirled around.
"Hey."
"Oh hey Trish, what's up?"
"Just getting in my workout. From the looks of it you're having a fight with the vending machine and well . . . lost." Trish laughed, and a small smile crept on Jeff's lips.
"Well, uh no. I needed water, but this dumb machine doesn't have any. I mean it only WATER machine, right?" Jeff said heatedly, as Trish simply smiled. She unzipped her duffle bag, sifted through it and finally pulled out a water bottle.
"I have a water bottle. It's so cold, real cool, crisp, luscious water, just waiting to be drunk . . . Just what ya need to quench ya thirst." Trish teased playfully, holding the bottle in front of his face.
"Why must you do this to me? Can I have some? Pwease?!" Jeff begged, giving her his best puppy dog eyes.
"Weeeeellll, I dunno. I just had a HARD, hard workout. I think I should drink this. You wouldn't want me to dehydrate now would you?" Trish asked, as she unscrewed the cap of the bottle. Just as she was about to take a sip Jeff shouted in protest.
"NOOOOOOO! I want it, please! I'll die if I don't have water! You wouldn't want that now would you Trish? Awww, come on pwease, I'll be you're best friend . . ." Trish laughed as Jeff continued to beg. Really it was a cute little game, others would think they were idiotic, fighting over a water bottle, but to them it was there sick little way of flirting.
"Well, I suppose I could. . ." Trish giggled as she shoved the bottle into Jeff's awaiting hands.
Jeff smiled opening the cap and downing at least half the bottle. When he was finished he asked, "So why'd ya give this up for me?"
Trish rolled her eyes. "Jeff it's only a water bottle. Plus I did it for my sake so I wouldn't have to listen to you bitch about how you're dying of thirst. Oh, and Jeff I'm taking it that you weren't aware that there's a water machine on the other side of the gym, right?" Trish smirked as Jeff spewed the water he'd just started to drink, on himself, on Trish, basically everywhere. "Ewwww that was so gross Jeff."
"Heh, sorry. You knew that there was another machine across the gym? So then why didn't you just tell me, instead of making me wait?" Jeff asked confused as Trish smirked.
"Well, I wanted you to beg. And well, you look cute when you're all nervous and stuff." Trish mumbled as Jeff confused look turned into a smile.
"Oh, well thanks." Jeff grinned, taking another sip of the water. "Oh hey, are you gonna come to the club tonight? It's gonna be bangin'!" Jeff exclaimed as Trish took a moment to ponder this.
"Hmmmmm . . . sure, why not?"
"Awesome! Oh, heh you got a lil somethin' right there." Jeff informed her, vaguely pointing to her face.
"What? Where?"
"There!"
"Did I get it?"
"No. Here, lemmie help." Jeff brought his thump up to her face, and gently wiped off the water about her eyebrow with his thumb. "How the hell did water get on your face?"
"Uh, Jeff you kinda SPIT everywhere! Well thanks, I'll see ya lata, I got to get to a photo shoot. Bye!"
"Hey, wait up! Don't ya wanna get all the info first?" Jeff asked, bouncing on the balls of his feet.
"Heh, right. Call me on my cell with the details. Cya tonight Jeffy!" Trish said as she gave Jeff a quick hug, gathered her things and made her way to the exit. Jeff watched her leave, grinning like an idiot. He followed Trish's suit and collected his things, getting ready to leave as well. "Tonight is gonna rock!" Jeff exclaimed as he turned on the ignition in his rental car, and sped off.
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The Diva's locker room was always a place where the girls would chat, gossip, and give advice on each others problems. It was basically a friendly atmosphere, a place any diva wanted to be. Although Stephanie was always given her own dressing room, she tried to make as many frequent visits to the locker room, to be among what she considered 'close friends'. Stephanie really wanted to get her mind off of her troubles, so she figured a friendly 'chat' with the girls would do the trick. How wrong she was.
Not bothering to knock, Stephanie pushed the large oak door to the Diva's locker room slightly ajar, and poked her head in. Before calling attention to herself, Steph observed the room and its occupants. The pale yellow walls were attached to rows of lockers, but still left an ample amount of space in the enormous room. Most of the diva's weren't there, some getting in a workout, others possibly doing photo shoots or interviews. Among the absent diva's were, Amy, the three Tough Enough girls, Jackie Gayda, Linda Miles and Nidia Guenard, who were all doing a Tough Enough shoot with Maven and Chris Nowinski. As well as Dawn Marie, Trish, Lisa Marie, Tina, Charlene or Lillian, who was at a local studio working on a track for her new CD. 'Thank God that bitch Stacy's isn't here. For her sake, and for my sanity.' Stephanie thought, as she tiptoed further into the room.
Nora was doing warm-ups in the corner, which made Steph smile. Nora was such a sweet person, with a bubbly personality that she admired. There wasn't much of a difference from Nora and her character Molly Holly. Jacquelyn was doing her make up in the mirror, Torrie was sifting through her duffle bag, and Terri was attempting to crimp her hair, but seemed to be failing miserably. Stephanie smiled, this was definitely the place she needed to be. She cleared her throat and everyone looked up from what they were previously doing.
"Hey girl!" Jacquelyn greeted, running over to her and hugging her.
"It's about time you visited us!" Terri exclaimed, placing the hair crimper down on a bench and also giving Steph a hug.
"Yeah what took you so long? It's been ages!" Molly joked, as she bounced over and she and Stephanie shared a hug as well.
"My turn! How ya been?" Torrie said, coming over to Stephanie and the two shared a short friendly hug. (A/N- Sorry about all the hugging, they just haven't really talked to Steph in a little while. *thinks* Plus they seem like the people to hug . . . okay maybe not. Keep reading.)
"Geez, guys it's not like we haven't seen each other in years! In fact we usually see each other every work day!" Stephanie laughed. The girls led her to a bench were they could talk.
"So . . ." Terri began in a suggestive tone. All the divas had the same burning question. The problem was, none of them were really sure if it was there place to ask. Stephanie curiously raised an eyebrow at her friends.
"What do you want to know?" Stephanie asked half-jokingly.
"How could you think such a thing?" Torrie accused, holing her hand to her heart, pretending to be hurt be the question.
"What a Drama Queen!" Terri chuckled, whacking Torrie lightly in the arm.
"Hey, I am not!"
"Suuuuuuure you're not." Jacquelyn replied, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. Torrie sat; arms crossed over her chest, and puffed out her lip pretending to pout. Everyone laughed at her, as it did look rather funny. Seconds later Torrie joined in with them, and ended up getting the hiccups because she laughed so hard.
After the five were able to catch their breath Stephanie spoke. "Aw guys, I know you want something, so quit the act." She said rather bluntly. All four girls glanced at each other, the one glance containing a whole silent conversation's worth of words. They nodded, silently agreeing to ask 'the question'.
"Well . . . are you and-" Jacquelyn began, but stopped abruptly when a tall figure came out of the bathroom/shower section of the locker room.
"Oh hi *hiccup* Stacy! Look who *hiccup* came to *hiccup* visit!" Torrie exclaimed brightly, through a slue of hiccups. The other divas smiled up at her, and cheerfully exchanged pleasantries. Stephanie on the other hand was less than thrilled about Stacy's arrival. Steph's icy stare seemed to penetrate right through the leggy blond, as an uncomfortable silence filled the room. Stacy stood in the middle of the room, her wet hair wrapped in a towel, as she tried to build up the courage to say something.
"Um, hi Steph. Great to see you." Stacy practically whimpered. Her feeble attempt to act nonchalant was as see through as glass to all in the room. They knew something was up.
Not breaking eye contact, Stephanie replied coldly, "Oh it's a pleasure seeing you too Stacy. Maybe we could have a chit-chat sometime?"
"Uh, okay. Oh we could go shopping! I heard there's some great sales. That is, if you have time." Stacy answered enthusiastically. She honestly felt guilty for sleeping with Vince, she only did it so she could get more air time and be higher in the company. 'Lucky Stephanie doesn't know I had an affair with her father. He's a pruning old bastard and I can't stand him in the least! And to think, he was the one who seduced me! Ewww, that sick fuck! Besides, I have my eye on someone else.' Stacy thought, her facial features turning sour at the thought of Vince.
"Sure Stacy. Um guys, I think I need to get going. See you all later. Bye!" Stephanie departed hastily leaving the girls baffled. A new thought had sprung into her mind. What if Stacy was the blackmailer? 'She could have easily done it. She obviously knew about the affair, since she was involved. She probably would have an accomplice though. It would be so easy for her to get away with it. Stacy's Vince's 'personal assistant' so she's around him all the time. Why didn't I think of this before? She probably set my father up. Seduced him, got him to sleep with her, then blackmailed him for God-knows-why.' Stephanie thought furiously. She walked through the corridor with increasing speed but came to an abrupt halt when she vaguely heard her name being called. Steph whirled around, only to come face to face with Nora. "Oh hey."
"What was all the rush about?" Nora asked curiously, tapping her foot on the ground.
"Well, I have uh, problems with Stacy."
"Okay, wanna elaborate hun?" Nora inquired, placing her hands on her hips. Stephanie let out a deep sigh, keeping eye contact with the tile floor. 'Should I tell her? Can I trust her? Will she believe me? Steph stop it, this is Nora you're talking about! Telling her might help . . . get it off my chest. Plus with Amy pissed at me, I have no female companion to discuss this with. Okay, I'm gonna go for it.' Steph's mind raced, as she thought rapidly of what to do. Firmly deciding, she turned back to Nora.
"Well?" Nora asked smiling brightly.
"Let's go somewhere so we can talk privately, I don't want this getting out." Nora nodded and the girls walked back to Stephanie's dressing room. After making sure the door was securely shut, Stephanie took a seat on the couch next to Nora. She sighed "This could take awhle".
"I've got time" Nora stated with a small smile.
"Well, if I chuck anything valuable across the room, just remember it was out of anger . . . and uh don't tell Mom or Shane it was me." Stephanie joked lightly as Nora nodded in anticipation. "Okay, here's the whole story . . ." Stephanie then began to explain to Nora how she found out that Vince had been having an affair with Stacy, and now he was being blackmailed. She did however leave out the part that Matt was the only other person that knew this information, and the fact that Steph could soon be their next victim. Nora sat blinking in shock for a moment.
"Oh my gosh, Stephanie I'm so sorry! Not to worry you, but do you think you are in any danger?"
Stephanie bit her lip, her gaze moving to the floor. 'It's like she read my mind! Should I tell her? Should I lie? Damn it, why did she ask that? I don't want to worry her, and well myself for that matter.' Steph shook her head as if to get the thoughts out of her mind. "I um, might be in danger. But I highly, highly doubt it, I mean I'm not involved in this at all, you know?" Stephanie's voice wavered nervously.
"Hunny, I don't know. You could be in serious danger!" Nora exclaimed her voice growing high, being over dramatic. Stephanie gulped down the lump that had been forming in her throat, but tried to keep her facial features calm.
"Uh, anyway, when we were in the hallway, did you feel like we were being followed?" Stephanie asked apprehensively. She could no longer ignore the lurching feeling in the pit of her stomach anymore, she knew something was going on. And she knew it wasn't going to be pretty either.
Fear flashed through Nora's electric blue eyes, but soon returned to their usual bright sunny selves. "I was just going to ask you the same question!"
From outside of Stephanie's locker room, a dark figure turned off a recorder. Out of pure panic at the fact he might soon be discovered, he quickly but quietly clicked the locker room door shut. 'So she knows someone is after her. But she doesn't know how much danger she truly is in.' He mused, as a sinister grin spread across his face. He meticulously checked the halls so he would no be seen, and luckily they were clear. He quickly and silently walked back to his locker room. He shut the door securely and plopped down on the couch to think. 'That bitch is going down. She'll learn never to mess with me or my heart again. She burned me, so know it's time for her to feel my pain. One year ago . . . I loved her with all my heart. Then the little Princess just offs and leaves my . . . tells me there's some one else she loves. Someone she's always loved. When I find out who he is . . .' He threw a vase across the room. Sure he might be overacting, but because of this 'guy' Steph had left him. They would both pay in the end.
Back in Stephanie's locker room, Nora was desprately trying to console Stephanie. "Hun, don't worry, I'm sure everything will be fine. If anything get's out of hand I'm sure you're dad will get the police involved. Plus, why would the blackmailers want anything to do with you?"
"I . . . I don't know. It's just that everything has been so messed up lately, ya know? I can't even get my head straight, let alone my life. I don't mean to sound like a Prima Dona, but everything has been so rough lately. If my mom finds out about the affair, as sure as I'm standing here, there's gonna be a nasty divorce. I dunno if I could handle that. And the fact that my career is taking its toll on me, and my love life is totally screwed up isn't helping much." Stephanie sighed. Nora smiled apologetically, and gave her a warm hug. "And Amy isn't talking-" Stephanie stopped abruptly as a knock sounded on the door.
"Uh, come in . . ." Nora said breaking the embrace.
A/N- OH, who's at the door? Heh, I just felt like ending this rather boring chapter abruptly. I got the power . . . WOOOOOOO! I love power . . . *droolz* Sorry that this chapter was so uneventful. But I did kinda introduced the fact the Blackmailer/Stalkers are after Steph. If you guyz review then I'll tell ya who's at the door in the next chap as well as what Steph & Adam's 'plan' thingy was. It's kinda lame, but it was all I could think of. Okay, I'd like to thank all the people who reviewed this fic, you guyz rock! And special thanks to Samantha Jane Hardy, she's always has something positive to say, thanks girl! You're my best reviewer! Toodlez!